Midwives Sharpsburg GA

See below to find local midwives in Sharpsburg that give access to childbirth assistance, labor coaching, and postpartum assistance, as well as advice and content on pregnancy and the postnatal period and whether choosing a midwife is right for you.

Finding A Doctor or Midwife Checklist

Before you choose a doctor or midwife for your pregnancy and labor, there are lots of things to consider. Since your MD or midwife will be with you during the months of your pregnancy, as well as beside you in the delivery room, you want to find someone you're comfortable with. Here are some questions you need to ask before you decide on a health care practitioner:

First, look at recommendations and credentials. You may find a great midwife or doctor by word of mouth from friends, online forums or by calling the hospital or birthing center where you would like to have your baby. Credentials are important what kind of educational background does your potential doctor have? Does your midwife have any special training such as pregnancy massage that could benefit you in the delivery room? Keep in mind, however, that diplomas and degrees only get you so far, and that a good bedside manner will be just as important. Ask for referrals, and find out if there have been any complaints against the doctor or midwife in the past.

The midwife or doctor's personality is essential you don't want to be stuck in the delivery room for hours with a midwife you don't get along with, or feel that your questions aren't being answered by your doctor. If your gut tells you no, listen to it. Ask the person how they feel about breastfeeding, epidurals, and testing procedures. If you're trying to find a doctor, inquire about his or her policy on being present for the delivery: you'd be surprised how many physicians today will send another doctor for the actual delivery.

Many midwives attend home births, so if you are planning on having your baby at home, ask about emergency procedures, what type of first aid and medical training the midwife has, and what preparations they take to ensure a safe, sterile environment for birth. Home births are only recommended for low risk, healthy pregnancies. You'll need to pick a physician as well if you're planning a home birth, just in case y...

Who Will Deliver Your Baby?

Who Will Deliver Your Baby?

Depending on your pregnancy health and personal opinion, you will have various options for your baby's delivery. It used to be that having your baby in the hospital was the only way to go, but today, you can choose to have your baby in the hospital, a birthing center, or at home. There are obstetricians, midwives and doulas to help you with your birth experience. Which one is right for you?

Family Physician

If you have a family doctor that you trust, he or she can deliver your baby if your pregnancy is uncomplicated. Some couples prefer to have a physician attending the birth, as he or she will then become the baby's doctor.

Obstetricians

Obstetricians (OB/GYN) are still the most popular choice for pregnant women, as they specialize solely in pregnancy and birth. If your pregnancy is high risk, you will be referred to an OB/GYN. Obstetricians work in hospitals and birthing centers, although some will attend home births.

Midwives

A nurse midwife has a degree in nursing, as well as a specialty in midwifery. He or she must have a backup doctor on call during the delivery, in case of emergency. Midwives can deliver your baby in a birthing center or at home, or can be present with an obstetrician or physician in the hospital.

A traditional midwife doesn't have a degree in nursing, but has completed a full education in midwifery. He or she has probably completed an apprenticeship program. Check your state's licensing requirements for midwives before you choose one, and ask how many babies your midwife has delivered.

Doulas

A doula is not able to deliver your baby, but she can give you valuable coping mechanisms for your labor. She can guide you with breathing and relaxation techniques, as well as providing massage or compresses during the delivery. Studies have shown that women who have a doula have shorter, easier labors, probably ...

Local resource for adoption centers in Sharpsburg. Includes detailed information on local businesses that provide access to domestic adoption, international adoption, adoption matching, adoption preparation, home studies, post-placement supervision, as well as advice and content on birth parent counseling.